Addie Newell-Sturgill is a senior English major with a bright future – she was recently accepted into the University of Denver’s Summer Publishing Institute. We chatted with her about her time at The University of Olivet, as well as her plans for the future.
Can you tell me a bit about yourself? 
I am a Soronian and I hold the position of Recording Secretary. I am the Senior Class representative and Student Activities Liaison for Student Government. I am a recent member of the English Honor Society, Sigma Tau Delta, and am also on the editorial board for the Garfield Lake Review.
Why did you choose The University of Olivet for your education?
I chose Olivet because I received a hand written letter congratulating me on my acceptance. I thought everything about Olivet was so personal. I loved how small it was and everyone I met was so welcoming.
How has your education at OC helped you prepare for your future?
I have gotten so much more one-on-one time with the faculty and the staff than I ever would have gotten at a bigger school. I have learned so much from my professors during their office hours. I don’t know what I would have done without all of those extra hours my professors have spent with me.
Is there any one professor who you feel has helped you along the way at OC?
I have encountered so many great professors at Olivet. It would be impossible to choose between Kirk and Laura. Kirk is my adviser, so he has literally gotten me to the point where I can graduate. He is the smartest person I know, and I have learned so much from him! Laura, however, has been a mentor. If I had a real world problem and I needed to go to someone, I would go to Laura. They both have been wonderful to me and I appreciate them for different reasons.
Congrats on your acceptance to the University of Denver’s Summer Publishing Institute! How did you hear about the program?
I heard about this program from a family member. These programs are just 4 to 6 weeks long, and I didn’t do much to prepare other than submit the actual applications. I had to write a two page personal statement and a paragraph about what book I would choose to have a large group of people read. I think what has best prepared me for this program is my work on the Garf. I have gotten real world experience with putting together a book, and that is what this program is all about.
Any advice to incoming students? How can they find success at OC?
Olivet is what you make it. If you get involved, participate in your classes, and take full advantage of all the opportunities Olivet can offer you, you will have a really great college experience. Schedule your time out. If you have to, schedule time for a nap. Go to all the teas/smokers. Even if Greek life is not for you, these events are fun and are a great way to meet people! Go on service trips. Again, they are fun, a great way to meet people, and are a really great way to travel really inexpensively. Try really hard to get good grades. Athletics, clubs, and work are important, but you are here to get an education. If you work hard at your education, your professors will work hard to manage your other responsibilities with you.